Programming

Our programming is centered around connecting you with your surroundings and furthering your relationship with our community. You will learn about the history of Bend and it’s growth over time, hear from city officials and local non-profits, and understand all of the ways you can get involved to give back to our community.

5:30—Check In

The event officially begins! Grab a drink and some delicious appetizers before we begin with our scheduled programming.
6:00—Programming

Join us for a rich discussion on the history of Bend, our key values, and where we are going in the future.
Networking

After our programming you will be able to connect with our speakers, community leaders and other attendees!

BEND 101: Connecting Through the Outdoors—June 3, 2025

Open Space Event Studios | 220 NE Lafayette Ave, Bend

Spend an evening with us at Bend 101—a welcoming gathering designed for new neighbors and long-time locals alike who want to deepen their connection to this special place we call home.

In addition to our regular programming, this edition of Bend 101 adds a focus on outdoor recreation and how it shapes our region, our culture, and our future. Through a moderated panel conversation with local leaders Zavier Borja (Visit Bend), Jeff Kitchens (Experienced Land Manager and Recreationist), and Rika Ayotte (Deschutes Land Trust), we’ll explore public lands access, permitting, conservation, and how we can all be stewards of the landscapes we love.

The evening will also offer insights into Bend’s past, how we’ve grown, and how we can work together to keep our community thriving.

Enjoy bites, beverages, and time to connect at Open Space Event Studios—because Bend 101 is all about learning, belonging, and building community together.

Thanks to our sponsors, The Ladd Group with Cascade Hasson Sotheby’s International Real Estate, OSU-Cascades, Providence Health Plan, City of Bend, First American Title, and Deschutes Brewery!

Register Now

**Damon Runberg**, State Economist,
Business Oregon

**Brian Ladd**, Principal Broker, Cascade Sotheby’s, Owner of Ladd Group

**Jeff Kitchens**, Experienced Land Manager & Recreationist

**Kelly Cannon-Miller**, Executive Director, Deschutes Historical Museum

**Eric King**, City Manager,
City of Bend

Topics Covered in Previous Programs:

Houselessness in Bend
Water Use and Allocation & Wildfire and Smoke
Land Use and Growth
Arts & Culture
Higher Education
Sustainability & Tourism
Healthcare in Central Oregon
Bend’s Parks and Libraries

Watch Past Events

Some of our previous Bend 101 events were recorded for future viewing. Take a look to get a sense of what it’s like to attend.

Testimonials

Here is what past Bend 101 attendees had to say about their experience.

“Really enjoyed the historical and economic presentations. Learning how Bend has evolved as a city was very interesting and informative and both presenters were excellent and worked extremely well together.”

— Bend 101 Attendee

“I loved learning the history of Bend. I think it's important to know how a place came to be and the changes it went through in order to appreciate where it is today, as well as how to move forward with respect for those have called Bend home for decades. I am very conscious of the fact that I am new here and shouldn't try to make Bend conform to my desires. I moved here because I liked Bend, I will strive to see that it remains the place I moved here for.”

— Bend 101 Attendee

“I was glad to see that the program addressed both the positive aspects of Bend’s history and culture as well as the challenges... Bend is not unlike many other cities around the country in terms of dealing with issues. Programs such as Bend 101 can be the catalyst for those who are fortunate to be able to afford to live here to get involved and become “part of the solution””